Coachella showcased the power and joy of dance

INDIO, Calif. - Janelle Monae, at the start of her performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on Friday, appeared alone at the top of a tiered, white pyramid-like structure.

She wasn't alone for long, though. After a few bars of the Prince-esque "Crazy, Classic, Life," dancers would emerge. And as the set progressed, she would be joined by a small army of 18 performers, all dressed in black and white checkered bodysuits and red jackets, and all choreographed to reflect the tone of her music - femininity at its most powerful, celebratory and individualized.

The dancers were a constant presence and force throughout the 50-minute set, a group of best friends, her personal